Alzheimer's Disease Introduction Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive dementia that begins in older adults and is believed to be caused by the accumulation of amyloid beta protein. The accumulation of amyloid beta protein culminates in the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles that begin to affect speech, memory, and other cognitive processes. Presently there is no cure for this disease and only marginal treatments. Alzheimer's disease is also accompanied by lower concentrations of neurotransmittors that may exacerbate the problem. Some evidence that this disease is partially mediated by the immune systeman also exists, since treatment with anti-inflammatory medications can slow the progression of the disease while ameliorating some of the symptoms. Laboratories Investigating Alzheimer's Disease & the Role of the Blood Brain Barrier | 
